The trees are budding, the gulls are calling and the air is getting warmer – summer is nearly here, bringing terrace season with it. If you're looking for well-designed outdoor furniture that can also withstand the fickle Nordic summer climes, rain and prolonged sunshine included, this edit is for you. Below, Vogue Scandinavia has curated the ultimate, hard-wearing roundup of the best outdoor furniture to shop now, from weather-resistant outdoor sofas and durable tables to sun loungers and ambient outdoor lighting
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How to choose the right outdoor furniture
The best outdoor furniture isn’t purely decorative, but should also withstand the elements. Scandinavian summers are known for their sudden showers, while long-term UV exposure and fluctuating temperatures can wear down outdoor furniture as well.
When choosing your alfresco furniture, there’s one key aspect to consider: the material. Powder‑coated aluminium (powder-coated metals resist corrosion well), galvanised steel, ceramic, and treated hardwood are the hardwearing yet low-maintenance materials to look for. Teak, for example, contains natural oils that make it highly weather‑resistant. Teak outdoor furniture can happily stay outdoors year-round, while it also develops a unique silver-grey patina over time. Worth bearing in mind, however, is that patio furniture exposed to direct sunlight and rain might require more regular upkeep than those placed on covered balconies or terraces.
Another important element to consider when buying your outdoor furniture is the size of your alfresco space. Small balcony furniture such as café sets, folding chairs and tables work well for compact city balconies and terraces, while expansive gardens and patios welcome generous outdoor dining tables, sun loungers, and sectional sofas.
Best outdoor tables
With the range of outdoor tables on offer, it’s important to choose the one that suits your needs and space the best. An outdoor dining table is ideal for those who enjoy entertaining – think alfresco dinners and long summer gatherings – and who are lucky enough to have a spacious terrace, patio or garden. Meanwhile, an outdoor coffee table or an outdoor side table work especially well for smaller setups like balconies, or for open-air spaces designed more for lounging than dining. If your space allows, patio furniture sets are an easy way to create a cohesive look. Materials like teak, powder-coated metals and stone are the best weather-resistant performers here.
Best outdoor chairs
Outdoor chairs are no longer the plastic, white pieces once synonymous with a grandma’s garden. Today, patio chairs balance refined design with weather-proof durability, with a slew of styles available. Outdoor lounge chairs and armchairs are perfect for relaxation-forward alfresco spaces, while stackable outdoor chairs and folding chairs lend themselves well to smaller balconies or terraces where seating may need to be stored away between uses.
Before choosing the material for your patio chairs, consider how much rain and direct sunlight your space is exposed to. Teak and powder-coated aluminium are the most hardwearing materials for outdoor chairs, while removable cushions and outdoor-friendly fabrics make maintenance significantly easier.
Best outdoor sofas
Outdoor sofas have come far from the stiff, uncomfortable and clunky designs they were once known for. Today, brands like Westwing Collection, Bolia, Kartell and Ferm Living offer cosy and elegant designs that would feel just at home indoors. Your outdoor sofa should ultimately suit your space and lifestyle: expansive alfresco spaces accommodate modular and sectional sofas, which naturally increase seating capacity, while a foldable outdoor sofa works well in more compact setups and is easy to stow away when extra space is needed.
It’s also worth considering whether your outdoor sofa comes with removable or waterproof outdoor cushions. If the sofa remains outdoors for prolonged periods, weather-resistant fabrics and quick-drying foam inserts are a must, particularly for designs without removable cushions.
Best sun loungers
A sun lounger instantly gives an outdoor space a resort-style feel. Also called pool loungers, the best designs harness durable, weatherproof materials like teak or powdered metal, and lightweight constructions that are easy to move around. Adjustable backrests make sun loungers more comfortable for longer lounging, while stackable or foldable pieces are more practical when space is limited. If placed poolside, sun loungers with mesh or fast-drying fabrics are better for wetter surroundings.
Best parasols
Rain or shine, a parasol is the piece of outdoor furniture that brings both practicality and atmosphere, shielding from sudden showers and harsh sun alike. The right parasol depends on the size of your outdoor space, whether it’s a snug balcony or an expansive patio. Larger patios and gardens, for instance, fit cantilever or freestanding designs, while tilting sun umbrellas and adjustable heights make it easier to track the sun throughout the day. Opt for parasols crafted from UV-resistant fabrics to help minimise fading, while also offering greater protection from the sun’s rays.
Best outdoor lighting
An alfresco space is nothing without ambient outdoor lighting. Plus, illumination is essential when spending time outdoors well into the evening. From fairy lights and outdoor lanterns to portable lamps, pendant fixtures and wall-mounted outdoor lighting, the options are endless, each creating a different kind of mood. Most important, nevertheless, is ensuring the designs feature weather-resistant finishes and outdoor-safe materials. Dimmable portable lamps are ideal for balconies thanks to their movability, compact size and softer glow, while larger open-air spaces often benefit from a mix of different outdoor lighting.
